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eBay launches new site for green cars

Buying an electric vehicle often involves legwork and getting on waiting lists. However, that may all be changing as the EV continues to gain acceptance among American motorists. Online auction giant eBay recently launched a new site devoted entirely to green vehicles.

A growing acceptance

Last week, the green car site Plugincars said it is not longer necessary for would-be Nissan Leaf buyers to get on long waiting lists. The Leaf can now be purchased off of a showroom floor, like any other car. Automotive News says that the sales of EVs and hybrids in the U.S. rose by 44 percent during the first quarter of 2012. However, the creation of eBay Green Driving site — a spinoff of its eBay Motors site — is perhaps the clearest sign yet that alternative vehicles are on their way to becoming mainstream.

A varied assortment of EVs

A quick browse of eBay Green Driving turned up an eclectic assortment of electrics. In addition to the more well-known models — such as the Tesla Roadster, the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Volt — the site also features some lesser-known and downright oddball models.

For instance, the there was a truly ugly, angular 1981 Comuta-Car Citicar with only 79 original miles, a 2008 Zap Xebra Electric Pickup that is licensed in the U.S. as a motorcycle and a wooden 1909 electric delivery van that looks like somebody forgot to hitch the horses up to it.

The rising cost of gas

Most industry experts agree that one of the largest reasons for the growth in EV and hybrid sales is the rising price of gas. eBay, in a press release, said:

“With the national gas price average reaching $3.83 in March and today’s national gas price average standing at $3.89, there’s never been a better time to green your driving and ease some of the pressure on your wallet.”

Fuel alternatives

In addition to EVs, eBay Green Driving will also sell hybrids and vehicles that run on compressed natural gas, bio-fuel and diesel. Some fuel-efficient gas models will also be listed.

Features of the site

The site offers the familiar eBay user-friendly tools, as well as a growing inventory of parts and accessories. There is also an assortment of timely articles, news and reviews of green cars.

Gregory Boutte, Vice President of eBay Motors and Electronics, said:

“eBay Green Driving offers a one-of-a-kind experience for car enthusiasts who are interested in more efficient vehicle options to save money at the pump and reduce overall environmental impact. This site combines informative content with our extensive parts and vehicles inventory to address the growing trend towards fuel efficiency.”

You will also find the Fuel Type Comparison Tool that displays the fuel cost and efficiency of a vehicle alongside other available models for comparison.